Comments - Strange kabuki scene from the tale of Yosaburo, the dissolute son of a merchant, who is caught during a tryst with Otomi, the mistress of a gang boss, and slashed all over. Reduced to a life of petty crime, he encounters his sweetheart years later during part of a blackmail scheme. In the center, Yosaburo threatens a head clerk held captive in a large wicker trunk, raising a knife above his head as the clerk pleads for mercy. Yosaburo wears a blue plaid kimono, scars visible on his face, chest, and arms. At lower left, Otomi looks up with a dismayed expression, while at right, a man holds back a samurai who prepares to attack Yosaburo with his sword. The scene takes place inside a shop with ledgers hanging on the wall and barrels in the next room at left. An intriguing image in a handsomely detailed setting.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 13 1/2" x 29 1/4"

Condition - This print with nice color and detail as shown. Three separate panels. Some holes, repaired. Please see photos for details. Nice overall.